How to Set Up for Bow Fishing

Compound bows work best for bowfishing.

Bow fishing is an exciting way to fish for those of you who don't like sitting in boats and waiting for something to happen. It's an exciting and athletic sport that lets you seek out the fish and take them down instead of tricking them into taking your bait. Bow fishing is legal in most states, but seasons and prey vary, so always check with your local game warden before trying it.

Things You'll Need

• Compound bow Fiberglass arrows Arrow rest Reel String Screwdriver

Instructions

Setting Up for Bow Fishing

1. Select a compound bow that fits your arm by holding it with your dominant hand. Adjust the draw weight to your comfort level, but don't drop below 40 pounds. The string, not stretched, should roughly line up with your elbow. Pick one you don't mind losing in case it falls in the water. Compound bows work best because they already have screw holes for attachments.

2. Attach the reel to the bow. Most reels need to be screwed or bolted in. Be wary of clamp-on reels as they aren't made for large fish.

3. Install a heavy-duty arrow rest on the side of your dominant hand in the midpoint of the bow. Some bows have plates extending slightly farther than the bow for extra rests or sights, and you can attach it there. You need a sturdier arrow rest for the heavier fiberglass arrows. Standard hunting rests are made for lightweight aluminum arrows. Fiberglass arrows are significantly heavier to cut through the water.

4. Nock an arrow and check your line of sight. Make sure the reel is clear from the front of the arrow and that there is plenty of room for the line to dangle.

5. Practice on the ground before trying it in the water. Watch for snags in the line or if the arrow doesn't fire. Sometimes you have to adjust the reel location if it's in front of the arrow's flightpath. Depending on the type of reel, adjust it by either unscrewing it slightly and turning it until the line of fire is clear or do the same by adjusting dial-turned leveling devices. For clamp reels, just re-clamp it in an appropriate position.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with different arrowheads, depending on the type of fish. Bottle reels allow for more power.

• Don't tie your bow to yourself in case you hit something while moving or the boat goes down.

References

• Bow Site: Getting Started with Bowfishing
• Hunting Net: Learn the Bowfishing Basics